Critical Skills for the Filipino IT Graduate

Filed in archive Best Practice on September 28, 2005

The Kalakalan website posted an article about improving one's marketable skills in the IT field. Though the article was written for Filipino IT graduates and workers, much of what it discussed could be useful for the global IT professional. The web author listed three tips that could help IT workers excel in the fast-paced and global IT field.

1. Self-education was stressed as an important skill for the IT field. IT professionals should keep abreast with the latest developments in their field. Soak up new knowledge and refine skill sets through the Internet. Turn to the World Wide Web as avenue for further development aside from IT schools and books.

2. communication skills should also be developed because of the global nature of the IT field.

One way to do this is by improving one's English language skills. In an article by Janette Toral, a leading IT advocate in the Philippines, she said, "There are many lessons you have to take seriously as you go through your studies. Written and oral communication skills are among the weaknesses of most IT graduates now. I exposed my sisters to IT training and journalism work to mitigate those risks."

And aside from sharpening one's English skills, the IT professional should also learn other language sets like Mandarin and Spanish. Learning other languages will give the IT professional and edge in the field.

Another way to improve one's communication skills is by developing a global persona. Wherever the IT professional is based -- Philippines, India, China, United States -- they should be able to connect with the rest of the world. The web author said, "We need to be able to convey our concerns effectively to people from other nations, and at the same time properly comprehend their needs." So, be exposed to different cultures through TV, movies, books, etc. but remember to retain one's own rich heritage as well.

3. Lastly, the IT professional should cultivate creativity and develop the confidence to continue growing. The mainstays of the IT field such as software development, BPOs and call centers could pass on in the future. The web author said, "The important thing is to gather trade skills, to always move forward, and to always think about the future." Be adventurous and open to all the possibilities that the IT field has to offer.

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